On November 19, 2025, a new chapter unfolded for cross-border industry as Weslaco, Texas hosted the inaugural Weslaco Abre sus Puertas: Foro y Recorrido de Inversión Binacional. Organized by the Weslaco Economic Development Corporation (EDC) in partnership with Canacintra—Mexico’s National Chamber of the Transformation Industry—the event set out to solidify economic bonds between South Texas and Northern Mexico. This gathering was not just a ceremonial handshake; it was a strategic move to position Weslaco and its neighbors as a vital engine in the global manufacturing landscape.
Held at the Business Visitor and Event Center, the forum brought together a diverse crowd: Mexican industrial leaders, U.S. stakeholders, local officials, and cross-border logistics experts. Their mission? To explore fresh opportunities in manufacturing, logistics, and international expansion—fields where both regions have seen remarkable growth in recent years. According to Texas Border Business, this forum was designed to strengthen the economic ties that have long defined the Rio Grande Valley and Tamaulipas, aiming to create a binational industrial ecosystem that could set a precedent for other border communities.
“The strength of Weslaco’s economy lies in collaboration—between our business community, our regional partners, and our neighbors in Mexico,” said Sandra Charlton, President of the Weslaco EDC Board of Directors, in remarks that captured the day’s spirit. She described the event as “a milestone in our efforts to attract quality investment and highlight Weslaco and the Mid-Valley region as a hub for industry and innovation.”
This sense of collaboration is not just local boosterism. The context is global: in 2024, the world’s top seven car-producing countries accounted for around 80 percent of the 92.5 million vehicles manufactured worldwide, according to ET Online. Mexico, the seventh-largest car producer, made 4 million vehicles—a figure that marked a five percent year-on-year increase. Its growth is fueled by proximity to the North American market and favorable trade agreements, with multinationals like Nissan, General Motors, and Volkswagen operating major plants in the country. As the forum’s organizers noted, the region’s manufacturing prowess is not just about numbers; it’s about strategic positioning.
Weslaco and Río Bravo, its sister city across the border, form a unique development zone. Their collaboration is designed to promote efficiency, long-term growth, and seamless movement of goods and talent. “Weslaco’s location as a central hub in Rio Grande Valley positions us as a strategic bridge for investment between Mexico and the United States,” explained Steven Valdez, Executive Director of Weslaco EDC. He emphasized, “Through this partnership with Canacintra, we are opening the door for more companies to expand, create jobs, and strengthen the manufacturing and logistics corridor for our border’s common interest.”
The day’s agenda was packed with practical sessions. Weslaco EDC showcased several shovel-ready industrial sites, highlighting the city’s infrastructure, skilled workforce, and logistical advantages for companies looking to expand. These presentations weren’t just theoretical; they were aimed at companies eager to set up shop in a region that’s already proven itself as a manufacturing powerhouse.
Weslaco Mayor Adrian Gonzalez opened the forum, welcoming guests and reaffirming the city’s commitment to international partnership. Representatives from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) introduced their Soft-Landing Program, which is designed to help international companies establish operations in the United States—a crucial step for many Mexican firms eyeing U.S. expansion. The forum also featured a session led by attorney Paola R. Guerrero, who reviewed U.S. visa and investment regulations, addressing key concerns for Mexican investors navigating the often-complex legal landscape.
One of the event’s highlights was an investor spotlight featuring Jorge De La Garza of ZIWA Corporation. As a repeat investor in the warehouse sector, De La Garza shared insights on construction warehousing, leasing options, and strategies for sustainable industrial development in South Texas. His experience underscored the real-world opportunities available for those willing to invest in the region’s growth.
Among the distinguished speakers was Joaquin Spamer, CEO of Commodities Integrated Logistics (CIL) and co-founder of RIOPLEX. With deep experience in cross-border relations, Spamer underscored the importance of collaboration: “Our collaboration with Weslaco EDC reflects Canacintra’s commitment to helping Mexican industry reach new markets and opportunities in the United States.” He added, “Weslaco offers a welcoming platform for investment, with infrastructure and a genuine spirit of partnership.”
This forum arrives at a time when global auto manufacturing is more concentrated than ever. China leads the world, producing 31.2 million vehicles in 2024—nearly three times the output of the United States, which manufactured 10.6 million vehicles, primarily light trucks and SUVs. Japan, another automotive giant, produced 9 million vehicles, with Toyota, Honda, and Nissan maintaining strong global presences. India, South Korea, and Germany round out the top producers, each contributing millions of vehicles annually and shaping the direction of the industry.
Yet, as ET Online notes, Mexico’s rise is particularly notable. Its output is climbing, and the country’s role as a manufacturing and export hub is only growing stronger. Favorable trade agreements and proximity to the U.S. market give Mexican producers an edge, while cities like Weslaco serve as gateways for these goods to reach consumers across North America and beyond.
Events like Weslaco Abre sus Puertas are more than symbolic gestures—they are concrete steps toward building a shared future. By aligning the ambitions of Mexican industry with South Texas’ readiness, the forum set the stage for long-term prosperity rooted in partnership and opportunity. As the Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco continues its mission to attract new businesses and promote job creation, the city is transforming into a dynamic community that welcomes growth and innovation.
Looking ahead, the momentum generated by this forum could have ripple effects across the region. With ongoing investment in infrastructure, workforce development, and cross-border collaboration, Weslaco and its partners are poised to play an even larger role in the global manufacturing and logistics ecosystem. For both seasoned investors and newcomers, the message is clear: the door to opportunity is wide open along the Texas-Mexico border—and the future is being built right here, one partnership at a time.
